Sr Meeting and Event Manager - Hybrid or Remote

JOB SUMMARY:  

NORC at The University of Chicago is seeking an experienced Meeting and Event Manager to join the growing Events team within the Strategic Communications department playing a lead role in planning high-profile government meetings, trainings, virtual webinars, and company special events. This position will work independently, manage projects, collaborate with senior planners, and oversee the work of other planners. A strong work ethic, creative spirit, positive attitude, and ability to thrive under pressure are essential.

DEPARTMENT: Strategic Communications and External Affairs

Strategic Communications and External Affairs supports the entire NORC organization with expertise in corporate communications and creative services, external affairs, internal communications, and select project-level communications. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Event Planning & Execution: Lead and manage all aspects of event planning, from RFPs and site selection to post-event reporting. Ensure successful execution and troubleshoot issues on-site.
• Project Leadership: Oversee and drive events from inception to completion. Develop and manage timelines and budgets, ensuring milestones and outcomes are met. Work independently without guidance.
• Vendor & Contract Management: Negotiate and review contracts. Manage vendor relationships for catering, AV, transportation, and other services.
• Team Management: Supervise and guide the development and workload of direct reports. Willingness to accept other duties and assist with other event-related responsibilities as needed to help the team get the job done for a client.
• Software Management: Use Cvent for event management, including website creation, registration, and speaker management.
• Marketing & Promotion: Develop and implement marketing strategies and materials for events and client communications.
• Logistics Coordination: Manage event materials, including badges, signage, and supplies. Handle packing, shipping, and on-site coordination.
• Reporting & Reconciliation: Prepare post-event reports, reconcile invoices, and track expenses.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Experience: 7+ years in direct conference planning, with experience in government events preferred. (7-10 years of industry experience preferred).
• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; graduate degree in event management is a plus.
• Certifications: CMP or CGMP preferred.
• Skills: Proven expertise in managing large-scale events, virtual platforms, event budget management, and vendor negotiations. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Software: Proficiency with Cvent and other event management software.
• Personal Attributes: Exceptional attention to detail, proactive problem-solving, entrepreneurial and a positive, can-do attitude. Ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively under pressure.

Additional Requirements and Details:

• Travel: Local travel required 5+ times a year.
• Regulations: Familiarity with GSA Travel Regulations and policies is strongly preferred.

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

The pay range for this position is $114,000 to $172,000. 

This position is classified as regular. Regular staff are eligible for NORC’s comprehensive benefits program. Benefits include, but are not limited to:  

• Generously subsidized health insurance, effective on the first day of employment 

• Dental and vision insurance  

• A defined contribution retirement program, along with a separate voluntary 403(b) retirement program  

• Group life insurance, long-term and short-term disability insurance 

• Benefits that promote work/life balance, including generous paid time off, holidays; paid parental leave, bereavement leave, tuition assistance, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). 

 NORC’s Approach to Equity and Transparency